Construction of a new state-of-the art medical and community services training facility officially began today at the Young campus of TAFE.

Minister for Skills, Small Business and Regional Development John Barilaro and Member for Cootamundra and Parliamentary Secretary for Southern New South Wales (NSW) Katrina Hodgkinson turned the first sod on the site to formally start the $10 Million redevelopment.

The new specialised facilities include a simulated hospital for health and aged care, an early childhood teaching centre with indoor and outdoor learning spaces, as well as a hairdressing and beauty therapy salon which will include the latest equipment.

Ms. Hodgkinson said the Young campus project marks a new era in the delivery of vocational education and training for the community.

“The redevelopment is very exciting and will allow local students to experience the very best in vocational education and training facilities.”

“This is a great opportunity for students to learn in state-of-the-art classrooms, giving them the best educational advantage and providing them with job-ready training.” Ms Hodgkinson said.

Mr. Barilaro welcomed the major development in a regional centre.

“The NSW Government is committed to supporting vocational education providing training that is relevant for local communities and matching local student and industry needs.”

“The new facilities will contain a connected learning centre delivering hundreds of blended courses, using digital technologies to access online learning resources, marking a new era in the delivery of courses for students.” Mr. Barilaro said.

“TAFE plays a crucial role in regional NSW and this investment in its future will create opportunities for Young and surrounding communities and allow our regional centres to prosper through quality education and training.”

A construction period of 12 months is anticipated with the new facilities open for use by February next year.